Living somewhere exotic as a guest is only fun for so long. To really be at home one must lay down roots. Since moving to Thailand in 1999 we’ve seized opportunities to not only get involved in the communities we live and travel, but conceive, launch and manage community projects throughout the region. While this process is rewarding, it more importantly builds trust with people that blossoms into rich friendships, and makes us part of their community.

Angkor Hospital for Children Tuk-Tuk Program — Siem Reap, Cambodia

We first stopped by the Angkor Hospital for Children (AHC) in May 2010 and were moved. Started in 1999 by a Japanese photographer who was shocked at the lack of medical care for kids he jumped-in. Today AHC sees up to 600 patients per day, all free of charge.

During a visit we learned a major problem is that many families are not able to afford the cost of transport to/from the hospital from their home. A visit is deferred until the patient’s condition is much worse than it needs to be. This is where Smiling Albino comes in.

We employ our favorite tuk-tuk driver, Mr. Sophoan, to drive patients to/from the hospital 10 times per month ensuring kids get the treatment they need before their condition unnecessarily worsens. We pay Mr. Sophoan $20US/day, far more than he’d make looking for customers on his own, providing him with much needed work/income and sick kids get to the hospital – everyone wins!

We’re currently accepting donations to keep this program running. To be a part of getting kids to the hospital in Siem Reap make a donation by clicking on our PayPal button. 100% of donated funds go directly to the program.

Scholarships for Students — Mae Sariang, Thailand

Getting a high school education is impossible for many Thai children. The government only requires students to complete Grade 9 and those from poor families more often than not simply do not have funds to continue their studies. This is a real shame as their future is stunted while still at a very young age. Through the generous donations of our guests and friends we’re trying to change this situation.

Working with the Samsara Foundation, Smiling Albino has sponsored 10 hilltribe students from the Mae Sariang region of NW Thailand, along the border with Myanmar, and will pay for their education to the end of Grade 12. Selected students are from the poorest of the poor and completing high school will give them a huge step up in life. Their interest in studying is a testament to their desire for a brighter future.